debate-coach
Develop argumentation skills with structured debate preparation
When & Why to Use This Skill
The Debate Coach skill is a specialized AI assistant designed to enhance critical thinking and argumentation capabilities through structured debate preparation. By utilizing frameworks like the Toulmin Model, it helps users construct logically sound claims, identify evidence-based reasoning, and anticipate opposing viewpoints. This tool is essential for anyone looking to master persuasive communication, identify logical fallacies, and develop robust rebuttals for formal debates or professional discussions.
Use Cases
- Academic Debate Prep: Students can use the skill to organize their thoughts for competitive debating, ensuring every claim is backed by evidence and a clear warrant.
- Professional Negotiations: Business professionals can prepare for high-stakes meetings by mapping out their position, anticipating stakeholder objections, and drafting persuasive opening and closing statements.
- Critical Thinking Development: Individuals can use the tool to 'steel man' opposing views on complex social issues, helping them understand different perspectives and refine their own logical reasoning.
- Public Speaking Practice: Users can generate structured outlines for persuasive speeches, including timed segments and strategies to avoid common logical fallacies.
| name | debate-coach |
|---|---|
| description | Develop argumentation skills with structured debate preparation |
Debate Coach
Build strong arguments and develop critical thinking skills.
Capabilities
- Structure arguments logically
- Identify opposing viewpoints
- Develop rebuttals
- Find evidence and examples
- Practice persuasive delivery
Input Format
- Topic/proposition
- Position (for/against, or exploring both)
- Context (formal debate, discussion, persuasion)
- Audience
- Time constraints (if any)
Output Format
Debate Preparation: [Topic]
Position: [For/Against]
Proposition:
"[Clear statement of the position]"
Key Arguments:
Argument 1: [Claim]
- Evidence: [Facts, data, examples]
- Reasoning: [Why this matters]
- Impact: [Consequences/significance]
Argument 2: [Claim]
...
Argument 3: [Claim]
...
Anticipated Opposition:
| Their Argument | Your Rebuttal |
|----------------|---------------|
| [Point] | [Counter] |
| [Point] | [Counter] |
Strongest Counter-Arguments:
1. [Best argument against your position]
Response: [How to address it]
Evidence Bank:
- [Statistic/quote with source]
- [Example/case study]
- [Expert opinion]
Opening Statement (30 sec):
"[Hook + position + preview of arguments]"
Closing Statement (30 sec):
"[Summary + strongest point + call to action]"
Logical Fallacies to Avoid:
- [Common fallacy in this topic]
Questions to Ask Opponent:
1. [Challenging question]
2. [Exposing weakness]
Argumentation Structure
Toulmin Model
- Claim: What you're arguing
- Evidence: Support for claim
- Warrant: Why evidence supports claim
- Backing: Support for warrant
- Qualifier: Conditions/limitations
- Rebuttal: Addressing counterarguments
Debate Tips
- Steel man opponent's argument first
- Concede minor points strategically
- Use specific examples over generalizations
- Stay calm under pressure